Somavalli is also called the queen of medicines. The importance and utility of Somavalli is widely mentioned in ancient texts and Vedas. From time immemorial, Somavalli is the plant to make deities and sages viva and give strength to them. It is known by the names of Mahasom, Ansuman, Rajatprabha, Kaniyana, Kanakaprabha, Pratapavan, Swayaprabha, Swetaan, Moon, Gayatra, Pavat, Jagat, Sakar etc. Its botanical name is said to be Sarcostemma acidum. There are many types of it. The specialty of this plant is that it does not have leaves. This plant is similar to vines only in the shape of the stalk. This plant with green stalks is also called Somavalli Lata. The juice that comes out of the vines of Soma is called Somaras.

Somavalli is neither cannabis nor any intoxicant leaves. Mon vines are found in mountain ranges. There is mention of its vines being found in the hilly areas of Arbud of Rajasthan, Mahendra Giri of Orissa, Vindhyachal, Malay etc. Some scholars believe that the Soma plant is found only on the hills of Afghanistan. It is a dark almond colored plant.